Travel Tips

Know Before You Go

Although most of the planning and preparation is taken care of for you, there are still a few things you should know and some details you should take care of to ensure your comfort, safety and peace of mind. Please review the following information before your departure to ensure that any surprises along the way will only be pleasant ones.

Getting Ready to Go
Passports and Visas

It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of departure and a visa if required. Passengers who are not U.S. citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies.

Passports and Visas - Peru

Passport required. Visa not required for tourist stays of up to 90 days.

Passports and Visas - Ecuador and Galapagos

Passport required. Visa not required for tourist stays of up to 90 days.

Trip Preparation

A little pre-planning can make your trip go a lot smoother. Several weeks before your trip, make a list of what you’ll need to take with you. Make sure your personal documents (passports, visas) are in order and that you have enough prescription medications to last through the trip.

Health Information

Check with your personal physician for the latest overseas travel health information, or contact the Center for Disease Control’s travelers’ hotline at 404-332-4559, web site www.cdc.gov

Health Precautions - Peru

While no inoculations are required, vaccination against yellow fever is recommended, especially if traveling to the Amazon or onward to Bolivia. Please consult your physician before traveling to Peru.

Cuzco, situated at an altitude of 11,000 feet above sea level, may cause in some travelers temporary altitude discomfort. Those affected should avoid over-exertion, drink extra water, and eat lightly. Gate 1 suggests you consult with your health care provider, who may recommend prophylaxis with acetazolamide. Other areas of Peru are also situated at high altitudes including Machu Picchu (7,800 feet), Sacred Urubamba Valley (9,300 feet) and Puno (12,600 feet).

Health Precautions - Ecuador and Galapagos

No inoculations are required when arriving in Ecuador from the U.S. However, vaccination against yellow fever is required if traveling to the Ecuadorian Amazon.

Quito is situated at an altitude of 9,400 feet above sea level. Therefore, you should allow a few hours to adjust to the high altitude by resting and eating lightly. Other areas of Ecuador are also situated at high altitudes including Riobamba (9,000 feet), Ambato (8,500 feet) and Cuenca (8,200 feet).

Please consult your physician before traveling to Ecuador.

Climate / Clothing - Peru

Peru's climate is divided into two seasons. The wet season is from November through April. The dry season is from May through October.

Climate / Clothing - Ecuador and Galapagos